Defending Chinese FA Cup champions Shanghai Shenhua were forced to issue a public apology on Wednesday evening after they were knocked out of this year's competition by third tier side Nantong Zhiyun.

Shenhua threw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 and exit the competition in the fourth round, when Chinese Super League sides enter the competition, and comes just five months after winning the title for the first time since 1998.

"For the last two games, the team has had problems both in attack and...

A wasteful Sydney FC are out of the AFC Champions League after a fiery 0-0 stalemate with a second-string Shanghai Shenhua.

Sitting third in Group H, the Sky Blues needed to beat last-placed Shanghai on Tuesday night and hope second-placed Suwon Bluewings failed to beat leaders Kashima Antlers at the same time to make the round of 16.

But the concurrent match in Japan didn't run to script as Suwon won 1-0 on matchday six.

In truth, neither did Sydney's final group match at Allianz Stadium, where...

Shanghai Shenhua crashed out of the Asian Champions League on Tuesday, while Guangzhou Evergrande must wait another two weeks for a chance to confirm their place in the knockout rounds on a frustrating night for Chinese clubs.

Shenhua lost a two-goal lead as they drew 2-2 with Kashima Antlers, with the result meaning Wu Jingui's side cannot advance to the next phase.

Giovanni Moreno put Shenhua in front from the penalty spot in the 13th minute after Obafemi Martins had been fouled, and Mao Jianqing...

There is life in Sydney FC's Asian Champions League campaign yet after the A-League champions produced a much-improved performance to hold Shanghai Shenhua to a thrilling 2-2 away draw.

Four first-half goals in 13 minutes highlighted a gripping contest and although the Sky Blues were forced to settle for a point -- their first from the opening two matches -- the display was full of positives for coach Graham Arnold.

However, the match may have come at a cost, with left-back Michael Zullo sustaining...

Tevez told TyC Sports that he accepts the criticism he received for his disappointing spell in Asia. Injuries and a lack of fitness limited the former Manchester United, Manchester City and Juventus...